Thursday, June 25, 2009

Are You Motivated by Negative Messages?


Today's snail mail included a postcard from a marketing company warning me that the economy isn't going to improve soon and, in fact, is just going to get worse. So, I'm told, if I just keep doing the same old, same old, I can expect to be massacred.

Shucks. I might as well just slit my wrists now and get it over with. Why hang in there any longer? Except...if I do...and if I sign up for their fabulous program that will make me wealthy...well then, there might just be hope for my survival after all!

These types of Chicken Little "the sky is falling" negative marketing messages don't motivate me. I avoid negative people in my day-to-day dealings, and will continue to avoid them as I make decisions about resources or services that will help me succeed in my business, so I dropped the postcard into the recycling.

But I'm wondering how you feel about this. Are you motivated by these types of messages? Will you buy a product or service because somebody tells you that you are doomed if you don't? Do you use these types of messages in your promotion or publicity materials? I'm not talking about a pitch that warns people about a public health risk or the dangers of not watching your kids when they're at the pool. I'm talking abut these more aggressive business messages. I'd like to hear what's working for you.

2 comments:

FrenchGardenHouse said...

No, I'm never motivated by negativity! {who is?!} I'm motivated by companies that are encouraging, but honest. The best example that pops in my head right now is Target. They have marketed themselves right through this period with a brilliant campaign about the new "date night" {movie & Popcorn at home} the new "haircut" {Do-it-yourself} etc.

There is enough negativity on the news, I would never willingly align myself with anyone or any company that uses scare tactics and negative messages. Good for you for recycling that post card.

Lidy

Sandra Beckwith said...

Thanks Lidy. Your Target example is great. Let's inspire during tough times by looking for the silver lining instead of going all gloom & doom. This postcard came from somebody who has a reputation for being a "smart" marketer but I wasn't impressed, intrigued or interested by it. I was just annoyed.